Scientific research is about discovering new things and applying them to improvements in life style for people and animals. But careers in science are now very demanding, requiring much more than a keen scientific mind and practical ability. If you are considering a career in research, have already embarked on your career and want to succeed, are uncertain which route to take, or advise, train or supervise scientists, this book should offer some helpful advice. It covers topics ranging from choosing a PhD or postdoctoral position, successful interviews and preparing your cv to managing your supervisor; how to give successful talks, publish high quality papers and get yourself known; and broad aspects of science which are so important today, including ethics and fraud, intellectual property and exploitation and disseminating science to the public.

'Nancy Rothwell has produced an accessible and excellently written book that covers just about everything you need to know about a career in science. … I wish I could write as well as she does. I wish I'd had this book when I started out as a research student all those years ago.'

Source: RDS Newsletter

‘… this book can be highly recommended to postgraduates and those in postdoctoral positions wanting an insight into what lies ahead in what will (hopefully) be a rewarding career.’

Mark Dallas Source: BNA Newsletter

‘… well written and notably easy to read … I will certainly recommend the book to our local MRes students.’

Steve Hughes Source: Annals of Botany

‘… a thoroughly worthwhile book that should be in the hands of anyone considering that most rewarding of pastimes - a career in science.’

Peter Atkins Source: The Times Higher Education Supplement

'The author gives some very useful tips on subjects such as networking, presenting work at conferences and grant applications. She does this is an entertaining way, but with a certain amount of authority. I would recommend it to anyone at the earlier stages of their career.'

Source: Microbiology Today

‘… a valuable asset to anyone currently in, or contemplating, research, and should be recommended to all science undergraduates.’

Source: Biochemist